Travel Date: 02-09 October 2025
This comprehensive itinerary lets you experience Bhutan’s cultural treasures, natural wonders, and spiritual highlights across Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey/Phobjikha, and more. It blends sightseeing, gentle hikes, and authentic encounters for a memorable journey through the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.”
Tour Itinerary Overview.
2 nights Thimphu –Witnessing Tshechu & exploring Thimphu.
2 nights Punakha valley – monastery & Dzong visits plus hiking.
1 night Phobjikha Valley – Watch black-necked cranes.
2 nights Paro valley – Taktsang Monastery hike, exploring & shopping.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
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- Arrive at Paro International Airport and meet your local guide amid fresh mountain air and scenic views.
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- Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs), stopping at the historic Tachog Lhakhang Iron Bridge.
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- In Thimphu, visit the National Memorial Chorten, a hub of local devotion and culture.
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- Enjoy a relaxed stroll through the city centre, soaking in its unique blend of tradition and modern life.
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- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Tshechu and Sightseeing
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- After breakfast, attend the vibrant Thimphu Tshechu at Tashichho Dzong—an unforgettable festival of masked dances, rituals, and traditional dress.
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- Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma for panoramic views, then meet Bhutan’s national animal at the Motithang Takin Preserve.
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- Continue with stops at the Folk Heritage Museum, National Textile Museum, and the School of Arts & Crafts.
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- End the day browsing Thimphu’s local market for crafts and local treats.
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- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley
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- After breakfast, drive from Thimphu to the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, passing forests and traditional villages.
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- Stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) for Himalayan views and the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.
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- Continue to the glacial Phobjikha Valley, home to black-necked cranes (late Oct–Feb).
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- Visit Gangtey Monastery and enjoy a peaceful valley walk on the Gangtey Nature Trail.
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- Overnight in Gangtey/Phobjikha.
Day 4: Gangtey to Punakha
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- Start with a serene morning walk in Phobjikha Valley—watch for black-necked cranes in late autumn or winter.
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- Drive to Punakha, descending into warmer valleys and scenic landscapes.
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- Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, set at the confluence of two rivers.
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- Take a short walk to Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge for scenic views.
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- Overnight in Punakha.
Day 5: Punakha Exploration
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- Begin with an optional hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for panoramic valley views.
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- Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, known for its spiritual blessings and unique stories.
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- In the afternoon, explore local villages or enjoy a peaceful riverside picnic.
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- Overnight in Punakha, with your choice of hotel or homestay.
Day 6: Punakha to Paro
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- After breakfast, drive back to Paro with scenic stops en route—possibly revisiting Dochula Pass if the weather allows.
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- Visit Rinpung Dzong and its iconic cantilever bridge, then explore Ta Dzong, home to the National Museum.
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- Spend the afternoon strolling through Paro town, browsing shops or enjoying local snacks.
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- Overnight in Paro.
Day 7: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
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- After breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched 900m above Paro Valley.
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- The 5–6 hour trek winds through pine forests and prayer-flag-lined paths with stunning views.
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- Stop at the cafeteria for lunch and scenic vistas before continuing to the monastery.
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- Explore the sacred site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated.
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- Descend and return to Paro. Evening at leisure—relax, explore, or enjoy a hot stone bath.
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- Overnight in Paro.
Day 8: Departure from Paro
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- Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, taking in the calm and serenity of the Paro Valley one last time.
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- After check-out, your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
As you depart the Land of the Thunder Dragon, carry with you the memories of ancient monasteries, warm smiles, sacred festivals, and the peaceful rhythm of Bhutanese life.
Highlights:
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- Thimphu: Memorial Chorten, Thimphu Tsechu, Buddha Dordenma, and local markets.
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- Gangtey/Phobjikha: Glacial valley, Gangtey Monastery, black-necked cranes (seasonal)
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- Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Khamsum Yulley Chorten, Chimi Lhakhang
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- Paro: Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Kyichu Lhakhang
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- This itinerary offers a balanced mix of Bhutan’s cultural, natural, and spiritual highlights, ensuring a rewarding and unforgettable 8-day holiday.
Unit price: Offer until November 2025
Solo Traveller: AUD 3500, now $3150pp
Duo/Couple travellers: AUD$3290, now $2960pp Twin/dbl
3-8 Travellers: AUD$3075, now $2770 pp Twin/dbl
9-17 Travellers: AUD$2970, now $2675 pp Twin/dbl
Why Book with Mindful Happiness Travel?
- Bhutanese-Owned, Locally Rooted: Proudly Bhutanese, with teams based in Perth (Australia) and Bhutan, ensuring smooth service and a deep cultural connection.
- Authentic Bhutan Experiences: Travel with heart. Our journeys immerse you in Bhutan’s rich traditions, spirituality, pristine nature, and warm local communities.
- Mindful, Meaningful Journeys: Peaceful and personalised travel experiences—perfect for families, honeymooners, and luxury travellers seeking depth and connection.
- Top Local Guides & Smart Itineraries: Discover Bhutan with expert Bhutanese guides. Our itineraries are thoughtfully crafted for less time on the road and more exploring.
Discover Our Favourite Travel Experiences in Bhutan
At Mindful Happiness Travel, Bhutan holds a special place in our hearts; it’s genuinely one of Earth’s most magical and enriching places. We’ve carefully designed three top private itineraries, perfect for solo travellers, couples, families, or small groups travelling together. Each journey can be customised and tailored beyond the suggested plans to suit your unique interests, travel style, and pace.
Full Package Includes the following list;
- Personalised tour with a local expert guide and private transport for a relaxed, mindful experience.
- Comfortable stays in three-star hotels or authentic farm homestays with private bathrooms.
- All meals included, including wholesome Bhutanese cuisine and daily bottled water.
- All fees, visas, and taxes are arranged for a hassle-free trip.
- A well-paced itinerary covering Bhutan’s key spiritual and cultural sites with time for reflection.
- Fully managed logistics by Mindful Happiness Travel so you can focus on meaningful moments.
- Return home refreshed, inspired, and connected to Bhutan’s unique culture.
The following lists are excluded from the complete package.
- International flights to/from Paro – must be booked and paid separately
- Personal bank charges or transfer fees
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, calls, tips, souvenirs, etc.)
- Hotel upgrades beyond standard 3-star accommodation
- Travel insurance – highly recommended and to be arranged by you
- Any required COVID-19 tests (PCR or rapid antigen)
Tailored Travel Options
- Flexible Packages: Choose Full Board or Half Board, with options for upgrading to luxury hotels or staying in authentic farmhouses in select valleys.
- Easy Communication: Connect with us via email, call, WhatsApp, Facebook, or TikTok—whichever suits you best.
- Reliable Support: Dedicated teams in Australia and Bhutan will assist you with planning your travel.
- Pre–Departure Planning Kit: Includes essential tips on culture, packing, weather, and etiquette to help you feel prepared.
- Comfort–Focused Itineraries: All hikes are optional; cultural sites like Punakha Dzong require minimal walking. Designed for flexibility and ease.
Optional activities
- White Water Rafting – Punakha Valley: Enjoy an exciting ride through scenic river landscapes.
- Archery – Paro, Thimphu, Bumthang: Try Bhutan’s national sport with a fun, guided archery session.
- Mountain Bike Hire – Paro & Thimphu: Discover the valleys at your own pace on two wheels.
- Cooking Class & Hot Stone Bath – Farmhouse: Learn to cook Bhutanese dishes and relax with a traditional hot stone bath.
